Our House: Home that’s a classier version of Steptoe’s

Feb 9 2010 By Emma Davison

Our House: Home that’s a classier version of Steptoe’s

He has dabbled in a variety of careers from teaching skiing in Austria to working as an extra on TV shows including Emmerdale.

Today, John runs Milnsbridge company B Authentic which supplies 12,000 original costumes from the 17th century onwards.

The business supplies costumes to the likes of theatre and TV companies, museums and murder mystery events and John can often be seen wearing some of the outfits.

He says: “I’m quite a flamboyant character so I guess the place does reflect that. You could say it’s a bit Steptoe and Son, but a nicer, more antique version.

“I’ve travelled all over the country and picked up bits and pieces from all kinds of places over the years from antique shops and car boot sales.

“I’ve done so many interesting things in my life and the house represents years spent collecting things. I’ve got everything from the model motorbike sold to me on a London street to the ornate lamp I bought from an exhibition in Paris.”

There’s evidence of John’s love of collecting all things weird and wonderful throughout his home.

The bathroom is possibly one of the most elaborate in Yorkshire and full of antiques and family pictures.

But the prize for most flamboyant room in the house must go to the incredible living room which is dominated by a central stone fireplace covered in collectables including motorbike memorabilia.

Here you are spoiled for choice on what to marvel at first, from the replica suit of armour keeping watch over the sofa to the mesmerising collection of stuffed birds and stags heads.

John explains: “I’m interested in history and perhaps some of my most prized possessions are the antique sword sticks.

“People are always fascinated to have a look around. For my charity events I have asked for donations for tours around the house and they’ve made the most money.”

The house is certainly one-of-a-kind, but after many happy years there John has decided to sell it to embark on a new adventure as he reaches retirement.

He adds: “I’m looking to change my life around this year. I still love my skiing so in the winter I plan to spend time in Austria and do some more instructing.

“I then plan to spend some time travelling around Europe collecting authentic Russian, Italian and French costumes which we currently don’t have as many quantities of in the shop.

“I would say my home is the most unique in Huddersfield. It might not be to everyone’s taste, but it only takes one person to come along and fall in love with it!”

The Piggeries, Longwood Edge Road, is on the market with Simon Blyth estate agents.

John is also auctioning off most of the contents of his home on Saturday February 20, with viewings from 10am. The auction begins at 1pm and will include his carriage.